As I write this brief article for the newsletter, I am cheered by the interest shown in EFM by educators who see it as an important tool for ongoing theological education, and will keep you posted as to ongoing developments in this area. In my own reading, I have been perusing Alister McGrath’s book, “The Twilight of Atheism – The Rise and Fall of Disbelief in the Modern World”. McGrath traces the history of atheism from the Greek city-states and early Christianity, when it meant, not so much the denial of God, but rather the refusal to worship local civic deities or, in the case of Christians, the denial of the divinity of Caesar. He goes on to trace the rise of “intentional atheism” from the French Revolution onwards, and points out how atheism is as incapable of proof as the religious positions it criticises, and often as dogmatic and intolerant. He also notes how contemporary atheism derives from the loss of imagination and passion on the part of Christians.

EFM, it seems to me, derives much of its strength from its addressing of the issues McGrath raises, which is why so many of our students
describe it as a life-changing experience. As the 2005-2006 year draws to a close, you might like to pick up a copy of McGrath’s book for summer reading. I suspect you will enjoy it, not only for its breadth and depth of scholarship, but for its lucid and accessible style.

I’m sure, too, that you’ll be pleased to hear that Patricia Bays has been named the General Editor of the forthcoming re-write of the EFM
texts, which will incorporate many of the concerns you have raised.

Have a great summer, and keep in touch with us, so we can continue to respond to your insights and concerns. And thanks again to all our mentors, trainers, diocesan co-ordinators and students, who by your commitment and enthusiasm continue to make EFM such a vital tool for the renewal of the church. To that list I would add Sheila Mulgrew, whose devotion to the program keeps the national office humming with efficiency and care for all of us.

Blessings to you all.
Peter Davison

From the Executive Coordinator’s Desk

Thank you, Mentors and Students, we have had a very successful year due to your cooperation and enthusiasm. I am looking forward to
receiving the re-enrollments for 2006–2007 by mid July.

Also, Thank you to all Coordinators and Trainers. There have been very successful Training Events due to your hard work. That is
what is helping EFM grow in Canada!

Wishing all of you a wonderful and safe summer,
Sheila Mulgrew

OUR COLLECTIVE MINISTRY

Archbishop Stewart Payne

Archbishop Stewart Payne has graciously consented to be the Patron of the efm canada bursary fund. A long-time promoter of efm, he has filled the roles of mentor and trainer, and continues to be active in the efm network. We thank him for lending his name and his enthusiasm to this project. Thank you to those who have generously donated!

If you wish to donate to the fund, please make cheques or money orders payable to the Diocese of Kootenay (Memo: EFM-Canada Bursary
Fund). Thanks to our diocesan office accounts manager, Official Income Tax Receipts will be issued for your donation.